Sultan bin Ahmed Opens 11th Sharjah Calligraphy Forum

The 11th Sharjah Calligraphy Forum, inaugurated on October 2, 2024, is one of the largest international platforms dedicated to celebrating the artistic legacy of Arabic calligraphy. Officially opened by H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, the Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, the forum has evolved into a prestigious event that gathers global artists and enthusiasts, focusing on Arabic script as both a cultural and artistic medium. Scheduled to run until November 30, this year’s forum not only pays homage to the historic Islamic art form but also seeks to explore its contemporary applications and interpretations.

Theme and Vision

The theme of this year’s Sharjah Calligraphy Forum is “Numerals.” This focus explores how symbols and punctuation such as commas, semicolons, and question marks are integral to Arabic calligraphy. Their aesthetic presence contributes to the formation and readability of the script, elevating the written word into an artistic statement. This thematic approach is expected to offer participating artists a new perspective on how these visual elements enhance the expressive power and elegance of calligraphic art. The concept of “Numerals” allows artists to creatively reimagine the role of these symbols within the broader aesthetic of calligraphy, highlighting how they contribute to both the text’s meaning and its visual appeal.

Calligraphers and Artists

This year’s forum has brought together 153 calligraphers from around the world, showcasing a diverse collection of over 300 pieces of artwork. These works represent a vast range of calligraphic styles, such as Thuluth, Naskh, Diwani, Kufi, and Ta’liq, which are each characterized by their unique forms, historical roots, and regional significance. Thuluth, known for its large, elegant strokes, and Naskh, a script widely used for its readability, have long been traditional styles in Islamic art. Meanwhile, the intricate, decorative nature of Diwani and the structural depth of Kufi and Ta’liq add further variety to the exhibition, presenting visitors with a comprehensive view of Arabic calligraphy as both an ancient and evolving art form.

The forum aims to capture how calligraphy transforms Arabic letters into visual art, inspired by various themes including Quranic verses, poetry, and philosophical concepts. The creative use of letters as visual elements, shaped by imagination and innovation, stands out throughout the works displayed, offering attendees a look into how traditional calligraphic styles are constantly evolving to reflect contemporary aesthetics.

The “In Love with the UAE” Exhibition

One of the highlights of the Sharjah Calligraphy Forum is the “In Love with the UAE” exhibition, which pays tribute to the nation’s heritage and patriotism through calligraphy. Curated by the Emirates Society for Arabic Calligraphy and Islamic Ornamentation, the exhibition features a variety of works that celebrate the UAE’s cultural pride and national identity. One standout piece is the artwork of Fatima Salmeen, a student from the Arabic calligraphy courses in the Eastern Region. Her piece is inspired by a poem by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, elegantly inscribed in the bold Diwani script shaped like an eye. This unique composition symbolizes the themes of generosity and kindness, as well as a sense of vision, urging young people to cherish their country and appreciate their blessings.

Related: 9th Int`l Calligraphy and Islamic Decoration Exhibition Opens in Amman

Honoring Masters

The Sharjah Calligraphy Forum not only serves as an exhibition but also as a platform for recognizing the accomplishments of both established and emerging calligraphers. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed toured several exhibitions, highlighting key pieces and acknowledging the contributions of various artists. Among the honored calligraphers were Khalid Al Jallaf from the UAE, Idham Mohammed Hanash from Iraq, and Jose Miguel from Spain. Each of these artists brought their unique perspectives and skills to the forum, showcasing works that range from Quranic verses to artistic interpretations of poetry and philosophical concepts.

The award winners for this edition were diverse, reflecting both traditional and contemporary approaches to Arabic calligraphy. Mohammed Al Farouk from Syria received the grand prize for his work “Have Mercy on Me,” an exquisite calligraphic piece that captivated the judges with its artistry and depth. Additionally, the forum presented several Authentic Trend Awards, with honorees including Ziad Al Muhandis from Iraq for “Surat Al Najm,” Fardin Qozloo from Iran for “Surat Yasin,” and Ahmed Al Bashir from Syria for “Surat Ar-Rahman.” Modern and Contemporary Calligraphy Awards were also given to Rashid Aghli from Morocco for “Fi,” Sanaz Al Barzi from Turkey for “Bird of Life,” and Jaafar Ali Sarwi from Iran for “He is the Mighty and Wise.” Special recognition was awarded to Imran Ali Al Balushi for his exceptional work “The Conscience of the Union,” which earned him the Special Jury Award for Emirati Calligraphy.

Forgotten Scripts

One of the forum’s key objectives is to revive and celebrate forgotten calligraphic styles that are seldom practiced in the modern world. In line with this, an exhibition was dedicated to showcasing ancient calligraphic forms, such as Hijazi, Mushafic Kufi, Eastern Kufi, Tawqi’, Ruqa’, Muhaqqaq, Rayhani scripts, Mamluk Thuluth, and Old Ta’liq. Each of these styles carries historical significance and showcases unique aesthetic qualities, representing different regions and periods in Islamic art history. Artists participating in this section brought these forgotten scripts back to life, highlighting their beauty and artistic value while experimenting with contemporary interpretations and techniques.

Islamic Artistic Legacy

Since its inception in 2004, the Sharjah Calligraphy Forum has become a prominent event for celebrating the artistic and cultural legacy of Arabic calligraphy. With over 94 events lined up for this year, the forum has something to offer every attendee, from specialized art workshops to lectures and seminars focusing on the technical, philosophical, and historical aspects of Arabic script. These activities are spread across various locations in Sharjah, such as the Calligraphy Square in the Heart of Sharjah area, the Sharjah Art Museum, the House of Wisdom, the University of Sharjah, and Al Qasimia University. The comprehensive approach to showcasing Arabic calligraphy ensures that visitors can experience the full spectrum of this historic art form, from traditional techniques to modern innovations.

Sharjah’s Cultural Influence

The Sharjah Calligraphy Forum has played a vital role in positioning Sharjah as a leader in fostering artistic culture and Arabic calligraphy. His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi’s support has been a cornerstone of the forum’s success, enabling it to grow into an internationally recognized platform for artistic exchange. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Qaseer, Director of Cultural Affairs at the Department of Culture and Director of the Sharjah Calligraphy Forum, emphasized that the forum has catalyzed creative expression in calligraphy, celebrating the aesthetics of Arabic letters and fostering a deeper understanding of this unique art form.

The forum stands as a testament to Sharjah’s commitment to cultural preservation and artistic innovation. It reflects the emirate’s rich cultural accomplishments and dedication to the aesthetics and creativity that are inherent in Arabic calligraphy, strengthening its role on the global artistic map.

As the Sharjah Calligraphy Forum continues until the end of November, it provides ample opportunities for attendees to explore, learn, and immerse themselves in the art of Arabic calligraphy. Whether one is a professional artist, an amateur calligrapher, or simply an admirer of the beauty of Arabic script, the forum serves as an inspiring space for cultural exchange, education, and appreciation of this ancient and evolving art form.